Determinants of Airline Selection at Nnamdi Azikwe International Airport, Abuja-Nigeria A Researchers’ Perspective

Abstract

The overall contribution of air transport industry to the world economy in year 2016 exceeded USD $7.6 trillion and this accounts for over 10% of global gross domestic product. It is projected that between 2018-2027, the value of the overall travel industry will grow at an annual compound rate of 3.9% reaching USD $11.5 trillion and representing more than 11% of global GDP. At the continental level, aviation sector contributes about USD $10 billion to the African economy. Furthermore, about 2000 airline operators with over 23,000 aircrafts are known to serve over 3,700 airports across the world. These developments continually stimulate airline operators towards increasing their market share on the global air transport landscape. Arising from these, this study therefore, examines the factors that determine passenger's airline selection decision taking at the Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport, Abuja, Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. The methodology of study involved structured questionnaire in which data was collected on passengers' attributes and airline service qualities suggested by Ajzen theory of planned behavior. Descriptive statistics and regression method were used in data analysis. Result of the study showed that passenger attitude and perceived behavioural scales were the most significant variables that influence passengers' choice of airlines. The study recommends improvement; airline operation in the critical areas of ticket pricing, service quality, safety, reliability and strong public image to enhance current customer attraction, retention and sustained patronage.